TFRC Sermons

1 Samuel 18:1-9 Theme: Jealousy - As David became more and more beloved and influential, King Saul became jealous of what he had. He lived into his own insecurities, lacked contentment with who he was, began listening to the outside noise of the world, and ended up losing sight of what mattered most. Rather than ruling the way God had called him to, he became obsessed with being Greater than David. When we find ourselves living with a jealous heart, we too can find ourselves acting like Saul, but if we see ourselves for our strengths, live with contentment, tune out unnecessary noise, and keep our eyes on what matters most we can keep ourselves from falling into the trap of jealousy.

Matthew 9:1-8 While healing a paralyzed man, Jesus also forgives the man’s sins, displaying His authority over sin. The Pharisees did not think Jesus was allowed to speak forgiveness into that man’s life, so their thoughts were evil because they did not recognize Jesus’ authority. How do we refuse Jesus’ authority in our lives?

Mark 4:35-41 In this story, the disciples have plenty to be afraid of - they are traveling in a boat at night; a storm comes and water is coming into the boat to the point it is nearly swamped; and Jesus is asleep in the back of the boat. There are lots of things we are understandably afraid of. However, Jesus expects us to not despair because He will address that which causes us to fear.

Daniel 5:22-31 Knowing the story of his father humbling himself before God, King Belshazzar still chooses to pridefully set himself up against God. He chose not to honor God with his living and paid the price with death. We have to choose to die to our pride, or we will die from it. Last week we talked about the hope of restoration when we submit to God, this week we see the consequences of continuing to live in prideful rebellion against God even when you know the truth. We must quit being the rulers of our own lives and allow God to reign over us. What are we pridefully putting ahead of God’s rule over our lives?

Daniel 3:16-27 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to betray their God by worshipping the gods set up by Nebuchadnezzar. Even under immense pressure, they refused to yield. Their faithfulness does not come with an expectation of God’s deliverance, but they will not betray their God regardless of what happens to them. That is the kind of loyalty that God values and displays.

Daniel 1:8-16 Daniel exemplifies what it looks like for us to courageously stand up for our faith and convictions in foreign land, or a land that goes against Christian values. Daniel blends conviction with wisdom and tact; he doesn’t compromise truth, but he communicates it humbly, respectfully, and creatively. Courageous standing up for our faith doesn’t need to be combative. Godly conviction should be accompanied by grace and discernment in approach.

John 13:34-35 Exploring the teachings of Jesus on relationships that transcend cultural expectations of servanthood, forgiveness, and peacemaking.